POLICE are appealing for help to trace thieves who stole four vintage motorcycles from the home of a pensioner in Greenmeadow.

The suspects broke into the garden of an 83 year old man in Kennet Avenue and forced open the door to his garage. They then took the classic bikes dating back to 1954, which the owner had spent years restoring. This happened in the early hours of yesterday morning.

One bike was later recovered and returned with a small amount of damage, two others were unfortunately found burned out, which has been very upsetting for the victim of this crime.

One vehicle still has not been traced. It is a 1962 grey coloured NSU Quickly moped which is in full working condition.

Local classic motorbike clubs are being alerted to the thefts.

Anyone with any information which could help police trace the offenders and/or the stolen moped are asked to call 101 quoting crime reference *23952, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.